By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
AN EMERGENCY funding grant will ensure more than 1000 Geelong residents continue to receive crisis food support, UnitingCare Geelong has announced.
The agency’s chief, Des Younghusband, said emergency funding was needed after the Federal Government slashed $271 million from social service grants.
“Vital emergency food support will continue at UnitingCare’s Geelong crisis support service after the agency was given an $80,000 cash injection from fundraising group Share,” he said.
“The money will be used to assist around 1000 Geelong residents, particularly those living in the southern and eastern suburbs, including women and children who don’t have money to buy food and pay for utilities.
“The number of food vouchers and fruit and vegetables given to disadvantaged people living in Geelong would be dramatically scaled back if Share didn’t agree to give the agency a grant.”
Mr Younghusband said reduced funding, combined with a rising number of people needing assistance, meant the service was more important than ever.
“We’re committed to helping any Geelong resident that walks through our doors and give them a sense of hope that there are places they can turn to.
“The money from Share helps us to reach out to more people who experience financial hardship.
“With the cost of living pushing families to the brink, we’re committed to continuing the established and reputable service.”
Geelong’s unemployment rate of 6.2 per cent had left more people suffering from food vulnerability with reports students at schools continually went without breakfast, Mr Younghusband said.
“For Geelong families, they’re finding that keeping up with utilities, unexpected medical bills, and schooling costs are placing pressure on the family budget.
“We’re seeing more people being vulnerable and facing housing shortages because they’re unable to afford essentials like food and clothing.”
Share operations and development director Angela Goodwin said the organisation had pledged just under $1 million to more than 16 UnitingCare agencies to fill the funding shortfall.
“It’s our way of showing that crucial frontline services should remain financially viable so they can continue to be the first port of call when someone needs assistance,” Ms Goodwin said.
UnitingCare Geelong is an emergency relief agency providing practical assistance to 5500 locals a year experiencing financial and personal hardship. Share is the fundraising arm of UnitingCare and Uniting Church services to the community in Victoria and Tasmania.
